Growing Population and Pakistan's Future

Islamabad, Pakistan Jul 12, 2026 ALN: On July 11, World Population Day was observed, a day that began in 1989 when the global population reached 5 billion. Today, in 2026, the world population has surged to 8 billion. Pakistan is also grappling with this rapid increase. If not controlled, future generations may face hunger, poverty, and disease.

Population and Education Crisis in Pakistan

According to annual plans, Pakistan's population stands at 241.49 million. Recently, journalist Ibrahim Kanbhar highlighted in a column that by 2050, this number could rise to 390 million. Currently, 64% of the population is under 30 years old. This demographic reality presents both challenges and opportunities. The youth bulge can be a significant asset for economic growth if adequately harnessed through education and employment opportunities. However, without strategic planning and investment in human capital, this demographic dividend could quickly turn into a demographic disaster.

The government's target is to increase the literacy rate among adults to 59.8%. However, the biggest tragedy is that over 25 million children are still out of school. This alarming statistic is indicative of broader systemic issues within the country's educational framework. Factors such as inadequate infrastructure, a lack of trained teachers, and socio-economic barriers contribute to this educational crisis. If we cannot provide education to today's children, where will the schools, teachers, and books come from for a population of 390 million? The failure to address these educational deficits now will have long-term repercussions, not only for the individuals affected but for the nation's overall development and competitiveness in the global economy.

Pakistan's education system has long been criticized for its inefficiency and inequity. The quality of education varies widely, with urban areas often having better resources than rural regions. This discrepancy contributes to a cycle of poverty, where children from disadvantaged backgrounds are less likely to receive a quality education, thereby perpetuating the cycle of underdevelopment. Moreover, the curriculum often lacks relevance to the current job market, leaving graduates ill-prepared for the workforce. The need for educational reform is urgent, as a well-educated population is essential for driving innovation, economic growth, and social stability.

Women's Education, Protection, and Prosperity

No nation can progress without empowering women. Unfortunately, women in our country are still overlooked. Millions of girls in rural areas are deprived of education. The barriers to education for girls are multifaceted, including cultural norms, economic constraints, and safety concerns. Women lack protection regarding inheritance, employment, and dignity. A society that does not educate and respect its women can never progress. Women's education is the foundation for controlling population growth and fostering prosperous families. Educated women are more likely to participate in the workforce, make informed health decisions, and invest in their children's education, creating a virtuous cycle that benefits society as a whole.

Furthermore, women's empowerment is critical not only for achieving gender equality but also for enhancing economic productivity. Studies have shown that when women are educated and empowered, they contribute significantly to economic growth. Countries that prioritize women's education and participation in the workforce often experience higher GDP growth rates and improved social indicators. In Pakistan, where traditional gender roles often limit women's opportunities, promoting gender equality can lead to a more prosperous and equitable society.

Debt, Inflation, and Public Despair

The economic situation in the country is dire. Pakistan is burdened with a debt of 81.93 trillion rupees, meaning each Pakistani owes approximately 327,000 rupees. More than half of the budget goes towards servicing this debt. This crippling debt scenario limits the government's ability to invest in critical sectors such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure. The historical context of Pakistan's economic struggles reveals a pattern of mismanagement and lack of accountability, where decisions have often favored a small elite while neglecting the needs of the majority.

Historically, decisions in Pakistan have never favored the public. The wealthy receive relief while taxes are imposed on the poor, leading to widespread disillusionment with the state. People often say, "The country runs on debt and charity." This sentiment underscores the pervasive feeling of disenfranchisement among the populace, which can lead to social unrest and a lack of trust in governmental institutions. The issues of a growing population, debt, and unemployment cannot be resolved through mere criticism. We must take action now. We need to build a society for the future where:

1. Resources are used responsibly. Water, electricity, and land should not be wasted. Sustainable resource management is critical in a country where natural resources are becoming increasingly scarce due to overpopulation and climate change.
2. Human rights are respected. Every citizen should receive dignity, justice, and equal opportunities. This includes addressing systemic inequalities based on gender, class, and ethnicity.
3. Women are empowered. Every girl should be educated, and every woman should be a breadwinner and decision-maker. Empowering women is not just a moral imperative; it is essential for economic development.
4. Quality and free education is available. The 25 million children out of school should be brought into the educational system and transformed into national assets. This requires significant investment in teacher training, educational materials, and infrastructure.
5. Sustainable development is prioritized. Instead of focusing on debt, attention should be given to production, industry, and agriculture, along with the formulation of public-friendly policies. Sustainable practices can foster economic resilience and environmental stewardship.

If we take these steps today, a population of 390 million could become a blessing for us. However, if we fail to act, this very population could become our greatest burden. The decision is in our hands – will we leave our children with debt and hunger, or with knowledge and dignity? The choices made today will shape the future trajectory of the nation, determining whether Pakistan can emerge as a thriving, equitable society or continue to struggle with the consequences of neglect and mismanagement. The time for decisive action is now; the future of Pakistan depends on it.

In conclusion, the challenges posed by a growing population are significant, but they are not insurmountable. With a collective commitment to reforming education, empowering women, managing resources sustainably, and addressing economic disparities, Pakistan can transform its demographic challenges into opportunities for growth and development. The road ahead will require collaboration across all sectors of society, including government, civil society, and the private sector. Only through a unified effort can Pakistan hope to secure a brighter future for its citizens and ensure that the potential of its burgeoning population is fully realized.